A Woman of Opinion

From the bestselling author of The Second Sight of Zachary Cloudesley comes an illuminating historical novel about the extraordinary, adventurous life of Mary Wortley Montagu—pioneering writer, poet and feminist. For fans of Matrix, Miss Austen and Hamnet.

Writer, pioneer, feminist, rebel—discover the outrageous story of Mary Wortley Montagu in this stunning novel by the bestselling author of The Second Sight of Zachary Cloudesley.

Longlisted for the 2025 Saltire Book Awards

'A triumph - vivid, exquisite, enthralling' Kate Griffin, author of Fyneshade

'Lusk conjures prose of a spell-binding elegance and charm' Essie Fox, author of The Fascination

'Witty, insightful and moving' Sunday Times

'I shall be a thousand different Marys and, in such manner, shall find the one I wish to be...'

Mary longs for adventure, freedom and love. When her powerful father schemes to marry her off to a foolish aristocrat, she has to find a man who will offer her the independence she craves. Never one to fear a scandal, she elopes with Edward Wortley Montagu.

Mary uses her charm and connections to live a life less ordinary—befriending poets, playwrights, and politicians. Securing a position for her husband as ambassador to the Ottoman Empire, she travels east, where she discovers a medical miracle.

But this new adventure will come at a cost, for Mary's inability to abide by the rules and her outspoken opinions have gained her powerful enemies...

'Skilfully weaves together themes of identity, ambition, and the pursuit of happiness...you won't forget Mary after reading this' Glamour

'Exploring not only a fascinating period in world history but also the life of a strong-minded woman who refused to be silenced by society's expectations' Culturefly

'Sean Lusk has made the voice of Mary Wortley Montagu ring clear and defiant through the centuries' Shona MacLean

Readers say:

'A five star read and one of my favourite books of the year'

'This book will take you on a journey with Lady Montagu, a clever, witty, humorous woman... A wonderful emotional story told with charm and warmth.'

'Exquisite...rich in language, character and setting.'

'Fearless, witty, and inspiring...both highly entertaining and incredibly educational.'

'Superb...if you are a lover of historical fiction then this is a must read... one of my top reads of the year.'

'Truly exceptional, a book to savour - I loved it!'